Connector Assemblies for Receiving Implantable Medical Leads

ABSTRACT

Connector assemblies that are separate from medical lead extensions provide features such as bores for receiving both a medical lead and a medical lead extension and provide electrical connections between connectors of the leads and connectors of the lead extensions. Connector assemblies may include additional features such as contours and wings that reduce subcutaneous erosion. Connector assemblies may also include retention structures such as movable clips that are moved into engagement with leads and lead extensions to retain them within the connector assembly. Integrated lead extension connectors may also include contours and wings as well as retention structures including movable clips.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments are related to implantable medical devices. Moreparticularly, embodiments relate to connector assemblies that receiveimplantable medical leads requiring a lead extension.

BACKGROUND

Electrical stimulation may be used as a form of therapy for severalmedical conditions. A stimulation device is implanted into the body at aparticular location that is convenient for implantation, and thestimulation device provides electrical stimulation signals. A conductionpath is created for the electrical stimulation signals by the presenceof an implantable medical lead that includes individual conductivefilars that are connected to electrodes on a distal end. The electrodesare positioned at a target site within the body to deliver thestimulation signals.

The implantable medical leads are often made at a length that is lessthan the distance from the target site to the implantation site of thestimulation device. This may be done to allow the implantable medicalleads to be more easily tunneled into position at the target site thanwould be the case if the lead was significantly longer. This allows fora two-stage implantation where a lead extension is also used, whichprovides protection for the implanted lead and allows the implanted leadto remain in place if the extension needs to be replaced. The leadextension is positioned between the stimulation device and theimplantable lead, and a distal end of the lead extension is an extensionconnector that receives a proximal end of the implantable lead. Theproximal end of the lead includes electrical contacts that establishelectrical connection with connectors within the extension connector,while filars extend between the proximal contacts of the extension andthe electrical connectors within the extension connector located on thedistal end of the extension. Thus, conduction paths from the stimulationdevice to the electrodes of the implantable lead are achieved.

There are drawbacks to this configuration that utilizes an extension.The extension connector may constrain the tunneling to a singledirection. Furthermore, the extension connector on the distal end of theextension requires a different manufacturing method than proximal end ofthe extension which increases the costs and complexities ofmanufacturing of the extension. Additionally, the geometry of theextension connector may lead to discomfort for the patient and/orerosion of tissue beneath the skin of the patient.

SUMMARY

Embodiments address issues such as these and others by providing variousalternatives to the conventional extension connector. One suchalternative includes a connector assembly that is separate from theextension and that receives a distal end of the extension and a proximalend of the lead. In this manner, the distal end of the extension may bemanufactured in the same manner as the proximal end and may also besmall enough to be tunneled in either direction including to thelocation of the proximal end of the implantable lead from the pocket ofthe stimulator. Furthermore, the connector assembly may be constructedin a relatively compact manner, may include compact retention structuresto hold the lead and extension in place, and/or may include structureswith contours that lessen the likelihood of erosion of tissue beneaththe skin. Another such alternative is an extension with an extensionconnector that includes compact retention assemblies and/or includesstructures with contours that lessen the likelihood of erosion.

Embodiments includes a connector assembly for receiving an implantablemedical lead and a lead extension that includes a body housing a firstbore with an external opening and a second bore with an externalopening. The body includes a plurality of insulative spacers havingapertures that are aligned adjacently to define the first bore and thesecond bore. A first plurality of electrical connectors further definethe first bore, each electrical connector of the first plurality ofelectrical connectors being separated from an adjacent electricalconnector of the first plurality electrical connectors by an insulativespacer of the plurality of insulative spacers. A second plurality ofelectrical connectors that further define the second bore, theelectrical connectors of the first plurality being paired andelectrically coupled to corresponding electrical connectors of thesecond bore.

Embodiments provide a connector assembly for receiving an implantablemedical lead and a lead extension that includes a body housing a firstbore with an external opening and a second bore with an externalopening. The second bore is adjacent to the first bore, with the firstbore and the second bore defining substantially parallel longitudinalaxes. An electrically conductive member is located within the body andextends laterally relative to the longitudinal axes, with theelectrically conductive member defining a first electrical connectoraligned in the first bore and a second electrical connector aligned inthe second bore.

Embodiments provide a connector assembly for receiving an implantablemedical lead and a lead extension that includes a body housing a firstopening and a second opening and defining a first bore. A firstelectrical connector is present at the first bore within the body andaligned with the first opening and completely encircles thecircumference of the first bore. A second electrical connector isdisposed within the body. An electrical conductor is located within thebody that electrically couples the first electrical connector to thesecond electrical connector.

Embodiments provide an implantable lead extension for receiving animplantable medical lead that includes an elongated insulative bodyhaving a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of electricalconnectors is located on the proximal end, and a plurality of filars ispresent within the elongated body and is electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors. An extension connector assembly ispermanently attached to the distal end of the elongated body. Theextension connector assembly includes a body having a first bore and agroove perpendicular to the first bore, the groove housing a movableclip. The movable clip has a springable end such that movement of theclip moves the springable end into and out of alignment with the firstbore. A plurality of electrical connectors is located within the firstbore, and the plurality of filars is electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors within the first bore.

Embodiments provide an implantable lead extension for receiving animplantable medical lead that includes an elongated insulative bodyhaving a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of electricalconnectors is located on the proximal end, and a plurality of filars ispresent within the elongated body and is electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors. An extension connector assembly ispermanently attached to the distal end of the elongated body. Theextension connector assembly includes a body having a first bore, thebody also having a tapered wing that extends outwardly through theplane. A plurality of electrical connectors is located within the firstbore, and the plurality of filars is electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors within the first bore.

Embodiments provide an implantable lead extension for receiving animplantable medical lead. The extension includes an elongated insulativebody having a proximal end and a distal end and a plurality ofelectrical connectors on the proximal end. A plurality of filars ispresent within the elongated body and is electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors. An extension connector assembly ispermanently attached to the distal end of the elongated body, and theextension connector assembly includes a body housing a first bore and aspring loaded retention structure within the first bore.

Embodiments provide an implantable lead extension for receiving animplantable medical lead. The extension includes an elongated insulativebody having a proximal end and a distal end and a plurality ofelectrical connectors on the proximal end. A plurality of filars ispresent within the elongated body and being electrically connected tocorresponding electrical connectors. An extension connector assembly ispermanently attached to the distal end of the elongated body, and theextension connector assembly includes a body housing a first bore and atwist lock retention structure aligned with the first bore.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an implantable medical system that includes a connectorassembly for receiving an implantable medical lead.

FIG. 2 shows a first example of a connector assembly that receives bothan implantable medical lead extension and an implantable medical lead.

FIG. 3 shows a second example of a connector assembly that includesstrain relief.

FIG. 4 shows a partially exploded view of an example of the connectorassembly.

FIG. 5 shows a partially exploded view of stacked configuration ofelectrical connectors and insulative spacers of a connector assembly.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly utilizing asingle piece dual connector configuration within a carrier.

FIG. 7 shows another example of a stacked configuration of electricalconnectors and insulative spacers of a connector assembly.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a connector assembly that receives both alead extension and an implantable medical lead while including a compactretention structure.

FIG. 9 shows a cross-section of the example of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a lead extension with an extension connectorassembly that receives an implantable medical lead while including acompact retention structure.

FIG. 11 shows an example of a connector assembly that receives a leadextension and an implantable medical lead while including contours thatform wings.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a lead extension with an extension connectorassembly that receives an implantable medical lead while includingcontours that form wings.

FIG. 13 shows another example of a lead extension with an extensionconnector assembly that receives an implantable medical lead whileincluding contours that form wings.

FIG. 14 shows another example of a connector assembly that receives alead extension and an implantable medical lead while including an outersleeve that has contours that form wings.

FIG. 15 shows another example of a connector assembly that receivesmultiple lead extensions and multiple implantable medical leads whileincluding an outer sleeve that has contours that form wings.

FIGS. 16A-16K show various examples of connector assembly configurationsfor receiving extension leads and implantable medical leads.

FIG. 17 shows an example of a lead extension with an extension connectorassembly that includes a compact retention structure and that receivesan implantable medical lead while including contours that form wings.

FIGS. 18A-18D show various examples of a connector assembly beinganchored within a patient.

FIGS. 19A-19C show various examples of contoured anchors for connectorassemblies.

FIG. 20 shows a spring loaded retention structure in an untripped state.

FIG. 21 shows the spring loaded retention structure in a tripped state.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative catch of the spring loaded mechanism.

FIG. 23 shows a twist lock retention structure in an unengaged state.

FIG. 24 shows the twist lock retention structure in an engaged state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments provide alternatives to conventional lead extensionconnectors. Some embodiments provide connector assemblies that areseparate from the lead extension where both the lead extension and thelead are inserted into the connector assemblies. Some embodimentsprovide extension connectors or separate connector assemblies thatinclude retention structures to hold the lead and/or extension in afixed position once inserted into the connector assembly. Someembodiments provide extension connectors or separate connectorassemblies with a contoured shape to lessen the erosion and discomfortthat otherwise may occur due to abrupt transitions in the shape of aconnector, where the contoured shape may provide wings that facilitateanchoring.

FIG. 1 shows a typical operating environment for the variousembodiments. In this example, the embodiments are being used in thecontext of deep brain stimulation. However, the embodiments may be usedin other contexts as well including spinal cord stimulation andperipheral nerve stimulation where a lead extension is used to extendthe electrical pathway from a stimulation device to the implantable leadand/or where multiple lead extensions are connected in series to evenfurther lengthen the electrical pathway.

In FIG. 1, an implantable stimulation system 100 includes a stimulationdevice 102, a lead extension 104, a connector 106, and a lead 108 thatare implanted within the body 110 of the patient. The lead extension 104is coupled to the stimulation device 102 and extends to the location ofthe proximal end of the lead 108. The connector 106, which may bepermanently attached to the extension 104 or may be a separate connectorassembly, receives the proximal end of the lead 108. Within theconnector 106, each electrical pathway from the extension 104 is bridgedto the corresponding electrical pathways of the lead 108.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a connector assembly 202 that may form theconnector 106 of FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, the connector assembly 202 is formedof a body that houses a bore 207 that receives the proximal end of thelead 204. In this example, the connector assembly 202 includes a bore onthe opposite side that receives the distal end of the lead extension206. The connector assembly 202 includes retention features such as setscrew assembly 212 which retains the proximal end of the lead 204 viacontact of a set screw against a contact 216 and set screw assembly 214which retains the distal end of the lead extension 206 via contact of aset screw against a contact 218. While this example shows the lead 204and the lead extension 206 having the same diameter, and therefore bothbores of the connector assembly 202 being of the same diameter, it willbe appreciated that the bores may be constructed at different diametersso as to accommodate a lead extension of a different diameter than thelead. However, where the bores are the same diameter and the electricalconnectors of both bores are at the same pitch, the connector assembly202 is reversible.

FIG. 3 shows another example of a connector assembly 302 This embodimentincludes a strain relief 306 on the side of the lead 204 and a strainrelief 308 on the side of the extension 206. The strain relief 306includes an opening 304 to the bore of the connector assembly 302 whichreceives the proximal end of the lead 204. The strain relief 308 alsoincludes an opening 310 to the bore of the connector assembly whichreceives the distal end of the extension 206. The connector assembly 302also includes retention features such as the set screw assembly 312which retains the extension 206 and lead 204. As shown, the set screwassembly retains the lead 204 by contact of a set screw against theclink 216. In this example, the set screw assembly is oriented 90degrees from the set screw assemblies 212, 214 of FIG. 2.

For embodiments where the distal end of the lead extension and theproximal end of the lead have electrical connectors at the same pitchand at the same diameter, then the corresponding connector assembly isreversible as either bore of the connector assembly can receive eitherthe distal end of the lead extension or the proximal end of the lead.Furthermore, the lead extension may also be reversible where theproximal end and the distal end utilize the same pitch for theelectrical connectors and where either end may be placed within the boreof a stimulation device and either end may be placed into the bore ofthe connector assembly. Where the lead extension utilizes the same pitchon both ends and where the proximal end of the lead utilizes the samepitch as the lead extension, then three out of the four ends involved inthe extension-to-lead chain may be manufactured by the same process.Examples of structures for establishing the pitch of the bores in theconnector assembly are shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 16A-16K.

The example of FIG. 3 also includes tines 314. These tines 314 provideretention of the connector assembly position at the implanted locationby engaging surrounding tissue. Because the connector assembly isseparate from the extension lead, the connector assembly is not requiredto be tunneled and therefore, the tines 314 do not present problemsduring the implantation.

FIG. 4 shows a partially exploded view of an embodiment of a connectorassembly. This connector assembly includes a sub-assembly 404 thatincludes electrical connectors and intervening insulative spacers thatare discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 5. Aninsulative coating 406 may then be overcoated around the electricalconnectors and insulative spacers within the sub-assembly 404 to form abody. The sub-assembly 404 defines two adjacent and substantiallyparallel bores 408, 410 for receiving the lead from one direction andlead extension from the other. Each bore is capped via an insulative cap418 that may be a separate piece or may be integral and that isolatesthe bore from the set screw block of the adjacent bore. Each end of thesub-assembly 404 includes a retention structure such as a set screwblock 412 and 420. The set screw blocks have a bore 414 to receive thelead or extension that aligns with one of the bores 408, 410, and a bore416 contains the set screw.

In this example, the sub-assembly 404 is installed within an outer shell402 which may be constructed of a metal or other rigid material andcompletes the connector assembly. The set screw blocks 412, 420 may bewelded to the edges of the shell 402. This may provide the added featureof creating continuity for a shield that may be present within the leadand lead extension for purposes of avoid induced currents from ambientRF energy such as during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Theshield of the lead and the extension may be electrically coupled to thecontact that is electrically coupled to the set screw assemblies 412 and420 which are electrically coupled together by the conductive shell 402.The conductive shell 402 may be exposed to the tissue, which wouldprovide a ground for the shield, or the conductive shell 402 may becovered by an over-molded insulative material which would prevent agrounding of the shield. As other alternatives, the conductive shell 402may be electrically connected to set screw blocks of each bore that areused to provide a stimulation path or the set screw blocks and the shell402 may be electrically isolated from all other electrical pathways.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a sub-assembly 502 of a connector assembly.This sub-assembly 502 includes insulative spacers 506 and electricalconnector bodies 504 positioned in an immediately adjacent andinterleaved fashion. Both the insulative spacers 506 and electricalconnector bodies 504 have apertures 508, 510 and 512, 514, respectively,that together form the bores of the connector assembly that receive thelead and extension. As can be seen apertures 508, 510 are alignedadjacently, as are apertures 512, 514. The resulting bores of thisexample are adjacent and substantially parallel to each other with theelectrically connector bodies 504 extending laterally to the axis of thebores. The insulative spacers 506 form seals at the apertures 508, 510which prevent fluids from spanning from one electrical connector body504 to the next and thereby prevent inadvertent electrical connectionsfrom occurring.

Each electrical connector body 504 provides the electrical connectionfrom an electrical connector of the extension to an electrical connectorof the lead. Because the electrical connector bodies 504 each have twoelectrical connectors that are coupled by the conductive nature of theelectrical body 504 establishing an electrically conductive pathway andare thereby paired together, no intervening electrical conductor isnecessary. Thus, no wires are needed within the connector assembly.However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, differentelectrical connectors may be utilized where separate wires are used toelectrically couple them together. For instance two canted coilconnectors such as the Bal Seal® connectors may be used instead andeither encased in a common conductive housing or interconnected bywiring.

While FIG. 5 shows a stacked configuration of the electrical connectorbodies 504 and the insulative spacers 506 that are overcoated forstability and cohesiveness, other types of construction may also be usedin other embodiments. For instance, a rigid carrier constructed of aplastic or other rigid non-conductive material may be provided to holdeach connector body 504 and each insulative spacer 506 in the properinterleaved position.

For some embodiments, the electrical contacts may be present in one boreand be separated by insulative spacers while the other bore is a seriesof electrical contacts, such as set screw blocks with air gaps ratherthan seals. Thus, the bore with set screw blocks and air gaps retainscompatibility with very low insertion force extensions or leads whilethe other bore provides seals for extensions or leads where higherinsertion forces are acceptable.

FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional view of a sub-assembly 602 of aconnector assembly. This sub-assembly 602 includes electrical connectorbodies 612 as well as a carrier 604 that provides integral insulativespacers which are not visible in this view, where the electricalconnector bodies are inserted through the visible openings of thecarrier 604. In this example, the layer 604 may complete the body of theconnector assembly, such as where the sub-assembly 602 is not covered bya rigid outer shell as discussed above in FIG. 4. The sub-assembly 602is attached to a retention structure, such as a set screw assembly 606that may be attached to the layer 604 by being partially over-molded,glued, and the like. The sub-assembly 602 may also be overcoated.

The electrical connector bodies 612 of this example are constructed of aconductive material such as a biocompatible metal with relatively highelasticity including Ti-15Mo (Titanium Molybdenum alloy) and TNTZ(Tantalum, Niobium, Titanium, Zirconium), and each includes twoelectrical connectors 614, 618 that define bores 608, 610 for receivingelectrical connectors of the lead and lead extension. In this example,the electrical connectors 614, 618 are single piece connectors that areformed by individual leaves 616, 620 distributed about the connector614, 618. These leaves 616, 620 flex in the radial direction to receivethe lead or lead extension while being biased against the electricalconnector of the lead or lead extension and establish proper electricalcontinuity from the connector of the extension to the connector of thelead. In this particular example, these single piece connectors areformed so that they completely encircle the circumference of the borefor receiving the lead or lead extension, with individual leaves 616,620 partially encircling the circumference.

FIG. 7 shows an example of another sub-assembly 702 which also includesinterleaved electrical connector bodies 604 and insulative spacers 706,which define bores 708, 710. However, in this example, the sub-assembly702 includes electrical connector bodies 710, 714 that form only onesingle piece connector. This construction may be used where set screwassemblies are not present to retain the lead but where shieldcontinuity is desired by electrically connected a clink of the extensionto a clink of the lead. In that case, one connector body 710 connects toone clink while the other connector body 714 connects to the otherclink. Another conductor then electrically couples the connector bodies710, 714 together, such as by using an outer conductive layer like theshell 402 of FIG. 4 where the outer conductive layer makes contact withthe connector bodies 710, 714 but is insulated from the connector bodies704.

In order to eliminate the set screw assemblies for some embodiments,another retention structure is provided. One example of such a retentionstructure is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. A connector assembly 800 includes amovable clip 804, 808 on each end. Each clip 804, 808 includes a handleportion 806 which slides within a groove 805 which is shown in thecross-sectioned connector assembly 800′ of FIG. 9. This allows the clip804, 808 to slide relative to the outer opening 802 and correspondingbore 814.

Each movable clip 804, 808 includes prongs 809, 810 that are springableto a more open position. This allows the prongs 809, 810 to be movedonto a lead body or clink as the clip 804, 808 is being pushed inward.The lead body or clink settles into detents 812 in the prongs 809, 810where the detents 812 align with the bore 814. The handle portion 806 ispartially exposed when the clip is engaged on the lead or lead extensionso that any available tool that can catch on the exposed portion of thehandle 806. The clip 804, 808 can then be pulled outward to release thelead or lead extension from the clip 804, 808.

The movable clip 804, 808 may be constructed of a biocompatiblenon-conductor such as a plastic. Where the clip 804, 808 can serve aspart of a shield ground or where the clip 804, 808 connects only to aninsulative portion of the lead or extension, the clip 804, 808 may alsobe a biocompatible metal.

Other examples of retention structures that eliminate set screw blocksare also possible. For example, the connector assembly may be providedwith a twist lock attachment, for instance a Tuohy-Bourst connector.Other examples include spring loaded mechanisms with a trigger. Forexample, a spring-assist could be attached to the clip 804, 808 with asmall catch formed in the groove to hold the clip 804, 808 in theoutward position. Upon a slight push by the surgeon inward to overcomethe catch, the spring-assist may then force the clip 804, 808 onto thelead or lead extension. Additional examples such as these are discussedbelow in relation to FIGS. 20-24.

FIG. 10 shows an example of an extension 1000 having a permanentlyattached connector 1006 that utilizes a retention structure like that ofFIGS. 8 and 9 but only for the end that receives the proximal end of thelead. The elongated portion 1002 of the extension 1000 has a permanentconnection portion 1004 to the connector 1006. A movable clip 1008having a handle 1010 is present within a groove 1009 on the opposite endof the connector 1006. The movable clip 1008 includes prongs 1012, 1014that are springable to a more open position. This allows the prongs1012, 1014 to be moved onto a lead body or clink as the clip 1108 isbeing pushed inward. The lead body or clink settles into detents 1016 inthe prongs 1012, 1014 where the detents 1016 align with the bore 1018.The movable clip 1008 may be constructed of a biocompatible plastic.Where the clip 1008 can serve as a shield ground or where the clip 1008connects only to an insulative portion of the lead, the clip 1008 mayalso be a biocompatible metal.

FIG. 11 provides a view of another connector assembly 1100 that isseparate from the lead extension. As can be seen, this connectorassembly 1100 includes an outer layer 1102 that provides a contouredshape. The outer layer 1102 includes a flat surface 1114, a curvedsurface 1116 extending from the flat surface 1114, and tapered wings1106, 1108 on each side. In this example, the taper 1112 of each wing1106, 1108 creates a concave contour from the curved surface 1116 to theouter edge of each wing 1106, 1108. However, it will be appreciated thatother contours may also be applicable such as convex, linear, and othersurfaces. The taper 1112 of each wing 1106, 1108 passes through ageometric plane 1118 that passes through the bores 1104.

This contoured shape of the connector assembly 1100 reduces thelikelihood of subcutaneous erosion and discomfort because of the subtletransitions the overlying tissue makes while spanning from the outeredge of wing 1106 to the outer edge of wing 1108. There are no sharptransitions, edges, and the like. Furthermore, the wings includefixation holes 1110 that allow the connector assembly 1100 to be fixedin place with screws or sutures that tighten against the underlying boneor surrounding tissue, respectively. The wings may include additionalfeatures as well, such as loops for suturing and tines for engaging thesurrounding tissue to prevent relative movement. Such tines may bestraight, have hooks, and so forth as discussed above in relation to theexample shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 12 provides a view of another extension connector 1200 that ispermanently attached to the lead extension 1212 via a portion 1214 thatjoins to an outer layer 1202. As can be seen, the outer layer 1202 ofthis connector assembly 1200 provides a contoured shape that matchesthat of the connector assembly FIG. 11. The outer layer 1202 includes aflat surface 1218, a curved surface 1220 extending from the flat surface1218, and tapered wings 1206, 1208 on each side. In this example, thetaper 1216 of each wing 1206, 1208 creates a concave contour from thecurved surface 1220 to the outer edge of each wing 1206, 1208. The taper1216 of each wing 1206, 1208 also passes through a geometric plane thatpasses through the bores 1204.

This shape of the extension connector 1200 reduces the likelihood ofsubcutaneous erosion because of the subtle transitions the overlyingtissue makes while spanning from the outer edge of wing 1206 to theouter edge of wing 1208. There are no sharp transitions, edges, and thelike. Furthermore, these wings also include fixation holes 1210 thatallow the extension connector 1200 to be fixed in place with screws thattighten against the underlying bone or sutures secured to thesurrounding fascia. Tines, loops, and the like may be included for thisembodiment as well.

FIG. 13 shows an example of another extension connector that has anouter layer 1302 which has contours and that defines a strain relief1306 for the extension lead 1304 that is permanently attached. Here, aninner assembly 1310 is present within the outer layer 1302 which may bein the form of a boot surrounding the inner assembly except at the topwhere the set screw 1308 of a set screw block assembly is located. Theouter layer 1302 forms contours including tapered wings 1312, 1314. Inthis example, the taper is a concave contour passing through a geometricplane 1315 that passes through the lead bore. Fixation holes 1316 arealso present within the wings 1312, 1314 to allow for fixation to theunderlying bone.

FIG. 14 shows another example of a connector assembly 1400 that receivesboth a lead 1412 and a separate lead extension 1414. An inner assembly1404 may be at least partially surrounded by an outer layer 1402 whichprovides the contours including a flat surface 1402 and wings with ataper that passes through a plane 1416 that passes through the extensionand lead bores. The outer layer 1402 may also provide strain relief 1410for at least one side of the inner assembly 1404. A set screw 1406 isexposed on one side while an aperture 1408 in the outer layer 1402 mayprovide access to a set screw on the opposite side. The outer layer 1402may be formed as a separate sleeve which allows the inner assembly 1404to be inserted and removed as desired.

FIG. 15 shows another example of a configuration 1500 of separateconnector assemblies, where the configuration has an outer layer 1502that joins to the separate inner assemblies 1504, 1506. Each innerassembly 1504, 1506 receives a lead 1518, 1520 and a separate extension1514, 1516. The outer layer 1502 may provide strain relief 1508 for eachlead and lead extension being received. Additionally, the outer layer1502 may provide contours to lessen erosion including tapered wings 1510which may include fixation holes 1512. The outer layer 1502 of thisexample is a sleeve which allows the inner assemblies 1504, 1506 to beinserted and removed as desired.

The connector assemblies discussed above receive one lead and one leadextension, or two leads and two lead extensions as in FIG. 15. However,there are many permutations that may be achieved using theconfigurations disclosed herein. The electrical connector bodies thatprovide multiple electrical connectors may be configured in various waysto connect one or more leads to one or more extensions. Severaladditional examples are shown in FIGS. 16A-16K.

FIG. 16A shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1602 where a fourelectrode lead 1606 is being connected to a four conductor extension1608. The electrical conductor bodies 1604 bridge from a connector ofthe extension to a connector of the lead, where the most distalelectrical connector on the distal end of the extension 1608 connects tothe most distal electrical connector on the proximal end of the lead1606.

FIG. 16B shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1610 where aneight electrode lead 1614 is being connected to an eight conductorextension 1616. The electrical conductor bodies 1612 bridge from aconnector of the extension to a connector of the lead, where the mostdistal electrical connector on the distal end of the extension 1616connects to the most distal electrical connector on the proximal end ofthe lead 1614. This configuration matches the configuration of theconnector assemblies of FIGS. 2-7.

FIG. 16C shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1618 where twoeight electrode leads 1624, 1628 are being connected to two eightconductor extensions 1626, 1630. The electrical conductor bodies 1620,1622 bridge from a connector of each extension 1626, 1630 to a connectorof each corresponding lead 1624, 1628, where the most distal electricalconnector on the distal end of the extensions 1626, 1630 connects to themost distal electrical connector on the proximal end of the leads 1624,1628. Also in this configuration, both extensions are positioned on thesame side of their respective leads. This configuration is similar tothe configuration of the connector assembly of FIG. 15 except that thisconfiguration is a single connector assembly body while FIG. 15 showstwo separate connector assembly bodies 1504, 1506 joined by the outersleeve.

FIG. 16D shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1632 which ismuch like the connector assembly 1618 of FIG. 16C. Two eight electrodeleads 1636, 1642 are being connected to two eight conductor extensions1638, 1644. The electrical conductor bodies 1634, 1640 bridge from aconnector of each extension 1638, 1644 to a connector of eachcorresponding lead 1636, 1642, where the most distal electricalconnector on the distal end of the extensions 1638, 1644 connects to themost distal electrical connector on the proximal end of the leads 1636,1642. However, in this configuration the extensions are positioned onopposite sides of their respective leads from one another.

FIG. 16E shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1646 where twofour electrode leads 1650, 1656 are being connected to one eightconductor extension 1652. Four conductors of the extension 1652correspond to one lead 1650, and the other four conductors of theextension 1652 correspond to the other lead 1656. A first set ofelectrical conductor bodies 1648 interconnect the connectors of the lead1650 to the corresponding connectors of the extension 1652 while asecond set 1654 of electrical conductor bodies that are offset from thefirst set 1648 interconnect the connectors of the lead 1656 to thecorresponding connectors of the extension 1652. In this configuration,the lead 1650 is inserted into the connector assembly roughly twice asfar as the lead 1656.

FIG. 16F shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1658 which ismuch like the configuration of the connector assembly 1646 in FIG. 16E.Two four electrode leads 1662, 1668 are being connected to one eightconductor extension 1664. Four conductors of the extension 1664correspond to one lead 1662, and the other four conductors of theextension 1664 correspond to the other lead 1668. A first set ofelectrical conductor bodies 1660 interconnect the connectors of the lead1662 to the corresponding connectors of the extension 1664 while asecond set of electrical conductor bodies 1666 that are offset from thefirst set 1660 interconnect the connectors of the lead 1668 to thecorresponding connectors of the extension 1664. In this configuration,the outer body of the connector assembly 1658 is shaped such that thelead 1662 is not inserted into the connector assembly 1658 any fartherthan the lead 1656.

FIG. 16G shows a configuration where two eight electrode leads 1674,1676 are being connected to one eight conductor extension 1678 so as togang fire the electrodes of the two leads 1674, 1676. The electricalconductor bodies 1672 bridge from a connector of the extension to aconnector of both of the leads 1674, 1676, where the most distalelectrical connector on the distal end of the extension 1678 connects tothe most distal electrical connectors on the proximal end of both of theleads 1674, 1676. Thus, in this configuration, the electrical conductorbodies 1672 have three electrical connections instead of two.

FIG. 16H shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1680 where fourtwo electrode leads 1684, 1688, 1692, and 1696 are being connected toone eight conductor extension 1695. The electrical conductor bodies of afirst set 1682 bridge from a connector of the extension 1695 to acorresponding connector of the lead 1684. These electrical conductorbodies are of a length that spans two lead bore widths from the bore ofthe extension 1695. The electrical conductor bodies of a second set 1686bridge from a connector of the extension 1695 to a correspondingconnector of the lead 1688. These electrical conductor bodies are of alength that spans only one lead bore width from the bore of theextension 1695. The electrical conductor bodies of a third set 1690bridge from a connector of the extension 1695 to a correspondingconnector of the lead 1692. These electrical conductor bodies are of alength that spans only one lead bore width from the bore of theextension 1695. The electrical conductor bodies of a fourth set 1694bridge from a connector of the extension 1695 to a correspondingconnector of the lead 1696. These electrical conductor bodies are alsoof a length that spans two lead bore widths from the bore of theextension 1695. As can be seen, in this configuration lead 1684 isinserted twice the distance of lead 1688, lead 1692 is inserted threetimes as far, and lead 1696 is inserted four times as far.

FIG. 16I shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1698 that issimilar to the configuration of FIG. 16H in that four two electrodeleads 1704, 1708, 1712, and 1716 are being connected to one eightconductor extension 1700. The electrical conductor bodies of a first set1702 bridge from a connector of the extension 1700 to a correspondingconnector of the lead 1704. The electrical conductor bodies of a secondset 1706 bridge from a connector of the extension 1700 to acorresponding connector of the lead 1708. These electrical conductorbodies are of a length that spans two lead bore widths from the bore ofthe extension 1700. The electrical conductor bodies of a third set 1710bridge from a connector of the extension 1700 to a correspondingconnector of the lead 1712. These electrical conductor bodies are of alength that spans three lead bore widths from the bore of the extension1700. The electrical conductor bodies of a fourth set 1714 bridge from aconnector of the extension 1700 to a corresponding connector of the lead1716. These electrical conductor bodies are also of a length that spansfour lead bore widths from the bore of the extension 1700. As can beseen, in this configuration the leads are all inserted the same distanceinto the connector assembly 1698.

FIG. 16J shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1718 that issimilar to the configurations of FIGS. 16H and 16I in that four twoelectrode leads 1722, 1726, 1730, and 1734 are being connected to oneeight conductor extension 1736. The electrical conductor bodies of afirst set 1720 bridge from a connector of the extension 1736 to acorresponding connector of the lead 1722. The electrical conductorbodies of a second set 1724 bridge from a connector of the extension1736 to a corresponding connector of the lead 1726. The electricalconductor bodies of a third set 1728 bridge from a connector of theextension 1736 to a corresponding connector of the lead 1730. Theelectrical conductor bodies of a fourth set 1732 bridge from a connectorof the extension 1736 to a corresponding connector of the lead 1734. Ascan be seen, in this configuration the leads 1722 and 1734 are insertedinto the connector assembly 1718 twice the distance as leads 1726 and1730. Furthermore, leads 1726 and 1734 are inserted on the same side asthe extension 1736. It will be appreciated that the lead and theextension can be inserted on the same side of the connector assembly forany of the embodiments discussed herein.

FIG. 16K shows a configuration of a connector assembly 1738 where oneeight electrode lead 1742 is being connected to one eight conductorextension 1746. In this example, however, the pitch of the connectors onthe lead 1740 is greater than the pitch of the connectors on theextension 1746. To account for this, the electrical conductor bodies arenot straight but instead have an angular section that forms an anglerelative to the lateral dimension of the connector assembly 1738. Eachelectrical conductor body forms an angular section with a slightlydifferent angle than the adjacent electrical conductor body. Thus, thepitch at the ends 1744 of the electrical conductor bodies in the borefor the extension 1746 is different than the pitch of the ends 1740 ofthe same electrical conductor bodies in the bore for the lead 1742.While the lead is shown with two sets of four connections, the spacingbetween the fourth and the fifth connections could be made to maintainthe pitch for all eight connections.

The pitch within a given connector assembly may be chosen so as to beuniversal relative to a collection of leads having different pitches.For example, a connector assembly having a pitch of 0.085″ for eightconnectors can accommodate a lead having a proximal end with eight orfewer connectors at 0.085″, or a lead having up to four proximalconnectors with a 0.170″ pitch. Thus, the connector assembly can beapplicable to this universe of lead options. This universal aspect alsoapplies to receiving a collection of lead extensions that may havedifferent pitches and number of connectors.

FIG. 17 shows a lead extension 1800 and demonstrates the electricalpathways that are present, as well as the wings and the lead retentionstructure that are present. For clarity of illustration, only twoelectrical pathways are shown but it will be appreciated that any numberof electrical pathways may exist in a lead extension to lead connection.The lead extension 1800 includes the lead extension elongated portionformed by an elongated insulated body 1802 and the lead extensionconnector portion 1804 that is permanently attached to the elongatedbody 1802. While the portion 1804 is shown as being centered to theconnector portion 1804, it may alternatively be offset. The elongatedbody 1802 includes electrical connectors 1806, 1810 with electricallyconductive filars 1808, 1812 connected to the respective electricalconnectors 1806, 1810. The filars 1808, 1812 extend into the connectorportion 1804 where each establishes an electrical connection to arespective electrical connector body 1814, 1816.

The connector portion 1804 includes a lead bore that receives a lead1824. The lead 1824 includes two proximal electrodes 1826, 1830 andrespective electrical conductors 1828, and 1832 that extend to thedistal end electrodes of the lead 1824. The electrical conductor bodies1814 and 1816 serve to bridge each electrical path from the conductors1808, 1812 to the connectors 1826, 1830, respectively. These connectorbodies 1814, 1816 may be of various forms including the two connectionsingle piece connectors discussed above in relation to FIG. 6.

The connector portion 1804 includes contours that define tapered wings1820, 1822 like those discussed above in relation to FIGS. 12 and 13.These contoured wings help prevent erosion by eliminating abruptfeatures and by also providing a stable anchor to the underlying bone toprevent movement of the connector portion 1804.

The connector portion 1804 also includes a compact retention structure,rather than a set screw block assembly. In this example, the connectorportion 1804 includes a movable clip 1818 that can be moved into and outof engagement with the lead 1824. This movable clip 1818 may be within agroove and may be shaped and function like the movable clip of FIG. 10discussed above.

FIGS. 18A-18D show various configurations for anchoring a separateconnector assembly or a connector portion of a lead extension. Byanchoring the connector assembly, stresses imposed on the connector bythe extension are not passed along to the implanted lead which improvesreliability. As shown in FIG. 18A, the connector assembly or connectorportion 1904 is positioned within a pit that a surgeon has made within abone 1902. An anchoring strap 1906 is placed over the pit and is securedto the bone with screws 1908 to hold the connector 1904 within the pit.The anchoring strap 1906 may be constructed of soft or rigid materialssuch as a plastic or a metal.

In FIG. 18B, the connector 1904 sits on a bone 1902. An anchor strap1910 is placed over the connector 1904 and the anchor strap 1910 isshaped so as to also engage the bone 1902. Screws 1908 secure the strap1910 to the bone 1902 so that the strap 1910 holds the connector 1904 ina fixed position. The anchoring strap 1910 may be constructed of a rigidmaterial such as a plastic or a metal.

In FIG. 18C, a connector holder 1912 has arms 1914 that fit around theconnector 1904 which sits atop the holder 1912. The holder 1912 sitsatop the bone. In this example, the holder 1912 is fixed relative to thebone 1902 with a screw 1908 located beneath the connector 1904. Theholder 1912 may be constructed of a rigid material such as a plastic ora metal. In this example, the single bone screw 1908 allows theconnector holder 1912, and the connector 1904 within it, to be swiveledwhich may be a benefit to surgeons during the implantation procedure.

In FIG. 18D, a connector assembly or connector portion 1916 of a leadextension has anchor portions 1918 built in. The anchor portions 1918are fixed to the bone 1902 with screws 1908. In some embodiments, theseanchor portions 1918 may be tapered wings as discussed above forpurposes of reducing erosion.

FIGS. 19A-19C show various configurations for including wings for aseparate connector assembly or a connector portion of a lead extension.In FIG. 19A, an outer layer 2002 that has been overcoated atop theconnector 2004 provides wings 2006 with fixation holes 2008. A strainrelief 2007 is also shown. This overcoated outer layer 2002 as well asthe overcoated layers of embodiments previously discussed herein may bemade of liquid silicone rubber, polyurethane, and the like and may beproduced by various techniques such as over-molding, heath shrinking, orswelled silicone. Furthermore, the wings of any of FIGS. 19A-19C may beremovable by being perforated so as to be torn away, or may be trimmedwith scissors.

In FIG. 19B, a sleeve 2010 has an opening 2014 that allows the separateconnector to be positioned within the sleeve 2010 prior to the lead andlead extension being connected to the connector. This sleeve 2010provides wings 2016 with fixation holes 2018. A strain relief 2012 isalso shown. This sleeve 2010 may be made of liquid silicone rubber andthe like.

In FIG. 19C, a sleeve 2020 has an opening 2024 that allows the separateconnector or the extension connector of a lead extension to be inserted.The separate connector may be inserted into the opening 2024 eitherbefore the lead and lead extension have been connected or after theyhave been connected, which provides the surgeon with added flexibility.Similarly, an extension connector can be inserted into the opening 2024either before the lead has been connected or after it has beenconnected, which again provides the surgeon with added flexibility. Thisis made possible by the sleeve 2020 also having slots 2026 that extendfrom the opening 2024 to the lead bore openings of the strain relief2022 on both sides. These slots 2026 allow for the passage of the leadand the lead extension cable when inserting the connector through theopening 2024. This sleeve 2020 may be made of liquid silicone rubber andthe like.

FIG. 20 shows an example of a connector 2100 such as a separateconnector assembly or a connector permanently attached on an extension.A retention structure 2104 is a spring loaded mechanism that includes acontact arm 2106 that pivots about a hinge point 2108. A retainer arm2110 includes a retainer 2112 that retains a spring 2114 in a compressedstate. A push arm 2116 extends from the retainer 2112 to a lock arm2118. The push arm 2116 and the lock arm 2118 of this example haveangled surfaces in contact to transfer longitudinal movement of the pusharm 2116 into lateral movement of the lock arm 2118. As shown in FIG.20, the lock arm 2118 is not within the bore 2102 such that the lead orextension can slide into or out of the bore 2102 without restriction bythe lock arm 2118.

As shown in FIG. 21, upon the lead or extension 2120 being inserted, thetip 2123 contacts and moves the contact arm 2106′ to the position shown.Movement of the contact arm 2106′ thereby moves the retainer arm 2110 tothe position shown, thereby releasing the retainer 2112 from the spring2114. The spring 2114 forces the push arm 2116 longitudinally toward thelock arm 2118 which thereby forces the lock arm 2118 laterally into thebore 2120. The lock arm 2118 engages a flange 2122 of the lead orextension 2120 to lock the lead or extension 2120 in place within thebore 2102.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative where the lock arm 2124 that includes adetent 2126. The flange 2122 becomes seated within the detent 21226 uponthe lock arm 2124 being forced into the bore 2102 to thereby lock thelead or extension 2120 in place within the bore 2102.

FIG. 23 shows an example of a connector 2300 such as a separateconnector assembly or a connector permanently attached on an extension.A retention structure 2302 is a twist lock mechanism that includes atwistable portion 2304 that is rotationally coupled to a protrusion 2306of the connector 2300 and to a coupling 2308 while being aligned withthe bore 2312. Rotation of the portion 2304 causes the coupling 2308move toward or away from the protrusion 2306. A deformable ring 2310 isretained within a gap between the protrusion 2306 and the coupling 2308.As shown in FIG. 23, when the ring 2310 is not being squeezed, the ring2310 does not deform into the bore 2312, and the lead or extension canbe inserted or removed without restriction by the ring 2310.

As shown in FIG. 24, upon rotating portion 2304, the coupling 2308 ispulled toward the protrusion 2306 to squeeze the ring 2310. The ring2310 then deforms into the bore 2312 to thereby engage a flange 2316 ofthe lead or extension 2314 present within the bore 2312, to thereby lockthe lead or extension 2314 in place within the bore 2312.

While embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that various other changes in theform and details may be made therein without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A connector assembly for receiving an implantablemedical lead and a lead extension comprising: a body housing a firstbore with an external opening and a second bore with an externalopening, the body including a plurality of insulative spacers havingapertures that are aligned adjacently to define the first bore and thesecond bore; a first plurality of electrical connectors further definingthe first bore, each electrical connector of the first plurality ofelectrical connectors being separated from an adjacent electricalconnector of the first plurality electrical connectors by an insulativespacer of the plurality of insulative spacers; a second plurality ofelectrical connectors further defining the second bore, the electricalconnectors of the first plurality being paired and electrically coupledto corresponding electrical connectors of the second bore.
 2. Theconnector assembly of claim 1, wherein each pairing of electricalconnectors is formed by an electrically conductive body also forming theelectrical connector of the first plurality of electrical connectors ona first end of the electrically conductive body and the electricalconnector of the second plurality of electrical connectors on a secondend of the electrically conductive body.
 3. The connector assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the body further comprises a layer of insulativematerial surrounding the plurality of insulative spacers and the firstand second plurality of electrical connectors.
 4. The connector assemblyof claim 3, wherein the body further comprises a rigid outer shellsurrounding the layer of insulative material.
 5. The connector assemblyof claim 1, further comprising a retention structure aligned with thefirst bore.
 6. The connector assembly of claim 5, wherein the retentionstructure comprises a set screw block.
 7. The connector assembly ofclaim 5, wherein the retention structure comprises a movable clip. 8.The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises apair of tapered wings that extend outwardly through the plane onopposite sides of the body.
 9. The connector assembly of claim 8,wherein the wings are removable.
 10. The connector assembly of claim 1,wherein the body further comprises tines.
 11. The connector assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the first bore and the second bore have the samediameter.
 12. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the electricalconnectors of the first bore are at a pitch different than theelectrical connectors of the second bore.
 13. The connector assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a spring loaded retention structure withinthe first bore.
 14. The connector assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising a twist lock retention structure aligned with the first bore.15. A connector assembly for receiving an implantable medical lead and alead extension comprising: a body housing a first bore with an externalopening and a second bore with an external opening, the second borebeing adjacent to the first bore, the first bore and the second boredefining substantially parallel longitudinal axes; and an electricallyconductive body within the body and extending laterally relative to thelongitudinal axes, the electrically conductive body defining a firstelectrical connector aligned in the first bore and a second electricalconnector aligned in the second bore.
 16. The connector assembly ofclaim 15, wherein the first electrical connector completely encircles acircumference of the first bore.
 17. The connector assembly of claim 15,wherein the body further comprises a layer of insulative materialsurrounding the electrically conductive body.
 18. The connector assemblyof claim 17, wherein the body further comprises a rigid outer shellsurrounding the layer of insulative material.
 19. The connector assemblyof claim 15, further comprising a retention structure aligned with thefirst bore.
 20. The connector assembly of claim 19, wherein theretention structure comprises a set screw block.
 21. The connectorassembly of claim 19, wherein the retention structure comprises amovable clip.
 22. The connector assembly of claim 15, wherein the bodyfurther comprises a tapered wing that extends outwardly through theplane.
 23. A connector assembly for receiving an implantable medicallead and a lead extension, comprising: a body housing a first openingand a second opening and defining a first bore; a first electricalconnector present at the first bore within the body and aligned with thefirst opening and completely encircling the circumference of the firstbore; a second electrical connector disposed within the body and alignedwith the second opening; and an electrically conductive path within thebody that electrically couples the first electrical connector to thesecond electrical connector.
 24. The connector assembly of claim 23,wherein the second electrical connector is formed in a common conductivebody with the first electrical connector that provides the electricallyconductive path and wherein the second electrical connector is within asecond bore that is adjacent the first bore.
 25. The connector assemblyof claim 23, wherein the body further comprises a layer of insulativematerial surrounding the first electrical connector, second electricalconnector, and the electrical conductor.
 26. The connector assembly ofclaim 25, wherein the body further comprises a rigid outer shellsurrounding the layer of insulative material.
 27. The connector assemblyof claim 23, further comprising a retention structure aligned with thefirst bore.
 28. The connector assembly of claim 23, wherein theretention structure comprises a set screw block.
 29. The connectorassembly of claim 23, wherein the retention structure comprises amovable clip.
 30. The connector assembly of claim 23, wherein the bodyfurther comprising a tapered wing that extends outwardly through theplane.
 31. An implantable lead extension for receiving an implantablemedical lead, comprising: an elongated insulative body having a proximalend and a distal end; a plurality of electrical connectors on theproximal end; a plurality of filars present within the elongated bodyand being electrically connected to corresponding electrical connectors;an extension connector assembly permanently attached to the distal endof the elongated body, the extension connector assembly comprising: abody housing a first bore and a groove perpendicular to the first bore,the groove housing a movable clip, the movable clip having a springableend such that movement of the clip moves the springable end into and outof alignment with the first bore; and a plurality of electricalconnectors within the first bore, the plurality of filars beingelectrically connected to corresponding electrical connectors within thefirst bore.
 32. An implantable lead extension for receiving animplantable medical lead, comprising: an elongated insulative bodyhaving a proximal end and a distal end; a plurality of electricalconnectors on the proximal end; a plurality of filars present within theelongated body and being electrically connected to correspondingelectrical connectors; an extension connector assembly permanentlyattached to the distal end of the elongated body, the extensionconnector assembly comprising: a body housing a first bore comprising atapered wing on each side that extends outwardly through the plane; anda plurality of electrical connectors within the first bore, theplurality of filars being electrically connected to correspondingelectrical connectors within the first bore.
 33. An implantable leadextension for receiving an implantable medical lead, comprising: anelongated insulative body having a proximal end and a distal end; aplurality of electrical connectors on the proximal end; a plurality offilars present within the elongated body and being electricallyconnected to corresponding electrical connectors; an extension connectorassembly permanently attached to the distal end of the elongated body,the extension connector assembly comprising: a body housing a firstbore; and a spring loaded retention structure within the first bore. 34.An implantable lead extension for receiving an implantable medical lead,comprising: an elongated insulative body having a proximal end and adistal end; a plurality of electrical connectors on the proximal end; aplurality of filars present within the elongated body and beingelectrically connected to corresponding electrical connectors; anextension connector assembly permanently attached to the distal end ofthe elongated body, the extension connector assembly comprising: a bodyhousing a first bore; and a twist lock retention structure aligned withthe first bore.